McKenzie apologises to Parliament

Opposition Member of Parliament Desmond McKenzie has apologized for statements he made in the House of Representatives last week, following his failed attempt to discuss the flag fiasco.

The West Kingston Member of Parliament had tried to have the Parliament discuss the controversy, over the omission of the green from a replica of the Jamaican flag, during a civic ceremony in St. James.

Mr. McKenzie's bid was thwarted by Deputy House Speaker Lloyd B. Smith, who was presiding over the sitting. 

He said the motion could not have been taken as it was not brought to the attention of the Speaker, before the sitting of the House.

It was on that basis, that the Deputy Speaker adjourned last week's Parliamentary sitting.

In response, Mr. Mckenzie said “I am moving that you not sit in that chair anymore."

Today, House Speaker Michael Peart sought to lay the matter to rest.

He described media coverage of Mr. Mckenzie's utterances as unfortunate and requested that Mr. McKenzie withdraw the statements he had made to the Deputy Speaker.

In response to the request, Mr. McKenzie apologised to Mr. Smith, as well as the Lower House.